Back to the Future Part II - PG

Lackluster yet benign time-travel sequel.

Rating: PG for parental guidance Studio: Universal Studios Directed By: Robert Zemeckis Cast: Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Lea Thompson Running Time: 108 minutes Release Date: 11/22/1989 Genre: Science Fiction

Common Sense Note

Parents should know that this film is darker than the first. One of the main characters is an aggressive, ruthless bully who degrades women and makes countless physical threats. The language is also a little harsher.

Families who see this movie could talk about Doc and Marty's determination to set things right. The two encounter endless dilemmas yet remain resilient in their efforts. Parents could also discuss Biff's character and his selfish motives. What characteristics make Biff the villain? Conversely, what characteristics make Doc and Marty the heroes?

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Common Sense Review

Reviewed By: Alex Orner

Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) and Doc Brown (Christopher Lloyd) again team up in this sequel to the box office success Back to the Future. The film begins where the last film left off, with Marty having just returned home from his adventure in the 1950s. Doc frantically begs Marty to time travel again, only this time into the future. The duo travel to 2015 in an attempt to save Marty's future son from danger. Unfortunately, their efforts offset an even worse series of events involving bully Biff Tannen (Thomas S. Wilson) and a sports almanac. In a battle against time, Doc and Marty have to go back to 1955 to set things straight once again.

BACK TO THE FUTURE PART II, although the least popular film in the Back to the Future trilogy, does its best to hold its ground. Rarely is there a lull in the film. Unfortunately, the plot is convoluted, confusing, and makes us care little about the characters. Fox and Lloyd do have great on-screen chemistry though, and will keep audiences laughing.

Families who enjoy this movie might also enjoy the other two films in the trilogy, Back to the Future and Back to the Future Part III. For a much sillier time-travel adventure, try Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure.

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Content		CS	adults	kids
Content
Sexual Content References to breast implants. Sexy girls seen in a hot tub. Both portrayed in a negative light.
Violence A character is seen shot by terrorists, but escapes injury. A bully makes several threats.
Language The "S" word is used several times.
Message
	Social Behavior One of the main characters is a greedy bully.
	Commercialism Several placement ads (Nike, Pepsi, Texaco, Black & Decker, AT&T).
	Drug/Alcohol/Tobacco